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CD38-Positive Blasts, Bone Marrow — Flow Cytometry

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A bone marrow flow cytometry test that measures CD38-expressing blast cells to help evaluate leukemia and determine cell characteristics.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify and characterize CD38-positive blast cells in the bone marrow."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107063-0
Short code
Blasts.CD38/Blasts NFr Mar FC
Synonyms
Blasts.CD38/Blasts NFr Mar FC
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test examines bone marrow cells using flow cytometry. Blasts are immature blood-forming cells, and CD38 is a protein found on the surface of some normal cells and certain blood cancers.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate suspected leukemia, identify the number and characteristics of abnormal blasts, and guide diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning. Results are interpreted with other blood, bone marrow, and genetic tests.

How is the test performed?

A small bone marrow sample is collected and tested with fluorescent antibodies by flow cytometry. The laboratory determines whether the blast cells carry CD38 and reports their number or proportion.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare team. Fasting is usually not required, but local anesthetic is commonly used. You may also need a sedative, and you should ask how long to watch for bleeding or numbness afterward.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CD38-positive blasts

Frequently asked questions

What does a CD38-positive blast result mean?
It means that some immature marrow cells have detectable CD38 on their surface. This can occur in certain blood cancers and must be interpreted with the complete bone marrow evaluation.
Does CD38 positivity mean I have cancer?
No. CD38 is also found on normal immune cells, including some B cells and plasma cells. A cancer diagnosis requires several other findings, not CD38 expression by itself.
Is the bone marrow test painful?
The procedure can cause brief discomfort, although local anesthetic is usually given. Some people also receive a sedative, and soreness or pressure at the collection site may occur afterward.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy